Australian Viral Meme Star Jack Karlson Dies at 82
Jack Karlson, the Australian man who became an internet sensation after protesting his arrest following a "succulent Chinese meal" in the early 1990s, has died at the age of 82.
Karlson’s viral fame originated from a video shot by 7NEWS in which he dramatically resisted police efforts to arrest him outside a Brisbane restaurant. In the clip, he can be heard declaring, "Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest! What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?" He also shouted at the police, asking them to "get your hand off my penis," and complimented them on their headlock, saying, "I see that you know your judo well."
Despite the video going viral, Karlson’s identity remained a mystery until 2020, when he publicly stepped forward as the man in the clip. In the years since, Karlson had attempted to earn money by painting scenes from his famous arrest.
Karlson had a history of criminal activity, including escaping from prison twice, and had survived childhood abuse. He had been battling prostate cancer at the time of his passing, and died in hospital surrounded by loved ones.
Tributes have poured in on social media, with many fans sharing their favorite memes featuring Karlson. Karlson’s story was recently brought to life in a documentary film, "The Man Who Ate a Succulent Chinese Meal," scheduled for release in March next year.
As the internet mourns the loss of its beloved meme star, fans can look back on Karlson’s entertaining antics and remember his iconic quote: "What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?"
